The Why

To kick things off, I want to take a moment to share the why behind Summit Design Works.

For the last six years, I’ve worked as a freelance soft goods designer in the outdoor industry. Most of my design clients have been small businesses and startups, which has given me invaluable experience in understanding how successful (and sometimes unsuccessful) products are developed and launched. Through the numerous of projects I’ve worked on, I’ve had a front-row seat to observe the outdoor industry from a unique perspective. One thing has really stood out to me: there’s a serious lack of technical apparel and bags being made in the U.S. - not just outdoor products, but clothing and sewn goods in general.

Currently, only about 3% of clothing worn in the U.S. is made domestically. Back in the 1980s, that number was as high as 70%. Since the 1990s, nearly all outdoor brands have moved manufacturing overseas, often to Southeast Asia, where low wages reduce production costs. This shift not only creates a disconnect between companies and their customers, but it also raises significant sustainability concerns. At Summit Design Works, I’m committed to changing that.

Sustainability and performance are the driving forces behind who I am as a designer. I want to create high-quality gear that not only looks great but also performs in demanding conditions. My goal is to produce everything locally, using sustainable materials, because I believe in taking care of our planet and preserving our beautiful outdoor spaces for future generations.

My love for the outdoors shapes nearly everything I do - whether it’s choosing sustainable fabrics for a client project or working to bolster local manufacturing. I aim to keep the carbon footprint low, enabling us all to continue exploring and enjoying the incredible places we love. What I hope will set Summit Design Works apart is the hands-on, detail-oriented approach I take with each product. Everything will be made by hand, in-house, ensuring every piece is crafted with care and precision.

This journey won’t be easy. Making performance apparel and gear is tough! Stretchy fabrics and specialized seams can be challenging to work with. Over the last several years, I’ve dedicated myself to mastering the skills needed to create gear that meets my high standards, and I’m excited to share the progress I’ve made.

At the end of the day, I hope my products not only perform exceptionally in challenging settings - like marathons, thru-hikes, and backcountry ski adventures - but also inspire people to think more critically about the gear they buy. I want Summit Design Works to play even a small role in bringing sewing production back to the U.S.

Thank you for joining me on this journey! I’m thrilled to contribute to the incredible outdoor community while promoting sustainability and U.S.-based production.